Gloucester County Toys For Tots Christmas Campaign starts Friday

This year’s Toys for Tots Gloucester County Christmas Campaign will kick off in Deptford on Friday at Toys "R" Us this Friday. The annual toy drive, organized by the Marine Corps League, distributes gifts to about 16,000 children in need every year.

Local fire companies will be on-site with emergency response vehicles, and Santa himself will make an appearance on a firetruck.

The Marine Corps League is seeking gifts for children between the ages of 10 and 12 because of an ongoing shortage. Most people donate toys for younger children.

“We run out of them so quickly,” said Bill Harkins of the Marine Corps League. “But with continued support, we’ll try and meet our goal of putting a smile on every kid’s face at Christmas.”

Donors are asked to bring brand new, unopened toys. Organizers ask that donors avoid gift wrapping the toys so they can be screened for safety. The event will begin at 1 p.m. on Friday at Toys "R" Us, 409 Almonesson Rd., Deptford.